Theresah Ankomah Memories of the Present, 2020 Kenaf onion baskets Work: 685.5 x 752 cm
Memories of the Present expands Ankomah’s investigation into climate change, material culture and art practice. The artist has recently been investigating the effects of urban weather through her work. Her interest lies in the sustainability of the materials she uses in the face of the alarming climate crisis by creating circular kenaf forms as a metaphor for life cycles. This is particularly resonant with contemplations and aspirations of a post-pandemic future whilst grieving for lives lost. Naturally, during the course of the exhibition, colours will fade and these material objects will slowly disintegrate as they react to changing environmental elements. Key questions posed through this work include: What new histories or narratives are formulated when fragile material objects encounter varied weather conditions? What sustainable futures can be forecast for these material objects and by extension her practice as an artist?
